Mer′e‐tri″cious (?), a. [L. meretricius, from meretrix, -icis, a prostitute, lit., one who earns money, i.e., by prostitution, fr. merere to earn, gain. See Merit.] 1. Of or pertaining to prostitutes; having to do with harlots; lustful; as, meretricious traffic.
2. Resembling the arts of a harlot; alluring by false show; gaudily and deceitfully ornamental; tawdry; as, meretricious dress or ornaments.
— Mer′e‐tri″cious‐ly, adv. — Mer′e‐tri″cious‐ness, n.